Lama Surya Das explores the practice of Vajra pride. Then takes questions on vegetarianism and Buddhism, preparing for the moment of death, and mindfulness.
Vajra Pride
Lama Surya Das opens the show with a talk about the many different practices available in the Dzogchen tradition. He reflects on the devotional practice called Vajra pride, which is divine pride. Having dignity in your lineage as a being in this world. It is recognizing the Buddha nature within all of us.
“I rejoice in the Buddha-ness on this seat, and that seat. And every seat, and every flower, and every clot of dirt. That’s the pride of the lineage. The dignity, Vajra pride.” – Lama Surya Das
Explore more about devotion in Buddhism with Krishna Das on Pilgrim Heart Ep. 37
Buddhism and Vegetarianism (17:47)
Lama Surya Das takes questions from the audience, the first of which is about how vegetarianism fits into the Buddhist practice of compassion and lovingkindness to all beings. He talks about how this is a question with no easy or right answer.
“Death is involved in all forms of life in the animal realm that we participate in.” – Lama Surya Das
The Moment of Death (30:47)
More questions come from the audience. Lama Surya Das talks about what it means to be a Vajra holder. How mindfulness can be misunderstood and gives advice for being in the moment of death.
“The best preparation from the Dzogchen point of view is we practice the dying in every moment, of letting go of the past and future. Letting go into the timeless.” – Lama Surya Das
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